Delivering the Promise Grand Canyon Council Boy Scouts of America

Camp Geronimo Emergency Procedures

Dale Willis Council President

Dan Drake Council Commissioner

Larry C. Abbott Scout Executive

2969 N. Greenfield Road Phoenix, AZ 85016-7715

(602) 955-7747 Fax: (602) 955-0570

1555 E. Cedar Flagstaff, AZ 86004

(928) 774-0685 Fax: (928) 779-3084

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Camp Emergency Procedures Table of Contents

Emergency Definition........................................ 3 Emergency Alarms & Response....................... 3 When the Emergency Alarm is Given .............. 3 Medical Emergencies ........................................ 4

Minor Injury ..................................................... 4 Major Accident or Health Emergency.............. 4 Heat Stress ..................................................... 5

Fireguard Plan.................................................... 6 Fire Emergencies............................................... 8

Protective Measures ....................................... 8 When a Fire Is Sighted.................................... 8 If Forest Fire Is Spotted................................... 8 If Structural Fire Is Spotted ............................. 8

Weather Emergencies........................................9 Storms (Electrical, Lightning, Wind) ................9 Electrical Storms (Lightning)............................9 Windstorms......................................................9 Severe Cold.....................................................9

Missing Person Emergencies .........................10 Protective Measures......................................10 Hiking Procedures .........................................10 When a Person Is Missing.............................10 Lost Person ...................................................10

Animal Encounter Emergencies .....................11 Bears and Javelina ........................................11 Rattlesnakes..................................................11 Skunks...........................................................11

Other Emergencies ..........................................12 Youth Protection ..............................................12 Evacuation Plan................................................12

Camp Emergency Procedures

Emergency Definition An emergency is any situation

that places anyone in immediate danger.

In all emergencies, the camp director shall be the person in charge of all activities related to the incident. Unless otherwise directed by camp management, maintain all normal routines.

It is the responsibility of all adult Scout Leaders and all Scout Camp Staff to respond to any and all emergency situations using the proper procedures as outlined in this publication.

During the summer months, when council programs are in session, trained medical personnel are on duty. During other times of the year, the camp ranger should be contacted in any emergency situation.

Be Prepared!

Proper Preparation, Outfitting, Training and Discipline can prevent many emergency situations from taking place.

Emergency Alarms & Response

Camp Geronimo Emergency Alarm

High-Low Wavering Siren

When the Emergency Alarm is Given 1. All campers proceed to the campfire circle.

2. Assemble by troops, staff and families – take roll call.

3. Wait for further instructions.

4. Everyone remains until the all clear signal is given.

Camp Geronimo Emergency Drill is always held on arrival.

Medical Emergencies Minor Injury Minor injuries or illness should be treated with first aid, and seen by appropriate medical personnel.

Northern Arizona’s sun can burn you quickly & harshly.

Biting insects are always an enormous nuisance

at Camp Geronimo, especially during June.

Major Accident or Health Emergency

1. Ensure medical attention for the individual is covered.

2. Administer first aid. (Treat for shock.)

3. Keep the victim still - do not let the victim move or be moved.

4. Notify the nearest camp staff member, or other authority, who can call for medical assistance.(Contact Headquarters and Notify the Camp Director or Program Director.)

5. The program staff will maintain order in their areas and continue with camp activities.

6. The first aid staff or Camp Director will determine what further emergency personnel or equipment is required contact appropriate rescue service.

7. If evacuation of the accident victim or victims is necessary, at least one staff member, in possession of appropriate medical release forms, will accompany the injured to the hospital.

8. If the press becomes involved, only council professionals shall release statements.

9. The council office, 602-955-7747, will be notified by the Camp Director or Program Director of the parties involved and the circumstances surrounding the accident as soon as possible. Notification of the parents will be made by the council staff.

Heat Stress

Be Aware of These Signs and Symptoms When the body is unable to cool itself by sweating, several heat-induced illnesses such as heat cramps, heat stress or heat exhaustion and the more severe heat stroke can occur, and can result in death.

The factors leading to Heat Stress are high temperature and humidity; direct sun or heat; limited air movement; physical exertion; poor physical condition; some medicines; and inadequate tolerance for hot workplaces.

Heat Stress Prevention

Know signs/symptoms of heat-related illnesses; monitor yourself and others.

Block out direct sun or other heat sources.

Use cooling fans/air-conditioning; rest regularly.

Drink lots of water; about 1 cup every 15 minutes.

Wear lightweight, light colored, loose-fitting clothes.

Avoid caffeinated drinks or heavy meals.

Heat Exhaustion Symptoms

Headaches, dizziness, lightheadedness or fainting.

Weakness, pale, nauseous, and moist skin.

Mood changes such as irritability or confusion.

Upset stomach or vomiting.

Heat Stroke Symptoms

Dry, hot skin with no sweating.

Very high fever.

Mental confusion or losing consciousness.

Seizures or fits.

Heat-Related Illness Response

Call/Send for First Aid at Headquarters or the Pool immediately.

Move the person to a cool, shaded area.

Loosen or remove heavy clothing.

Provide cool drinking water.

Fan and mist the person with water.

Reference: OSHA Quick Card (OSHA 3154-07R-05) Occupational Safety and Health Administration; U.S. Department of Labor WWW.OSHA.GOV.

When you arrive at camp, you will be oriented and trained in the use of the Unit Fireguard Plan and

everyone is involved in a fire drill at the beginning of the week.

Fireguard Plan • It is your responsibility as a unit leader to train your Scouts in fire prevention, fire

detection, reporting, and fire control. • Only implement fire control techniques that can be done quickly and easily. • Study the procedures outlined on the Unit Fireguard Plan and then train your staff and

youth members. • Post the Unit Fireguard Plan for all to see and follow. • In the event of a fire, the following guidelines should be followed: • Immediately report the location and the size of the fire to Headquarters and Notify the

Camp Director or Program Director. • Small fires are to be extinguished by the person finding them and reported to the

Camp Director or Program Director as soon as possible. Organize to make the Unit Fireguard Plan work by appointing capable fire wardens and deputies. Then ensure that they carry out their duties as described in the Unit Fireguard Plan.

Flammability Warning - Camping Safety Rules No tent material is fireproof, and it can burn when exposed to heat or fire. • Only flashlights and electric lanterns are permitted in tents. No Flames in Tents is a

rule which must be enforced. • Chemical-fueled stoves, heaters, lanterns, lighted candles, matches, or other flame

sources should never be used in or near tents. • Do not pitch tents near open fire. • Do not use flammable chemicals near tents: charcoal lighter, spray cans of paint, or

bug killer and repellent. • Be careful when using electricity and lighting in tents. • Always extinguish cooking and campfires properly. • Obey all fire laws, ordinances, and regulations. • Keep campers informed on a daily basis of your camp's fire danger.

In Case of Fire Reporting & Assembly Instructions In A Unit Campsite 1. Sound the alarm by yelling Fire! and

then notify the first adult you see, then report to a camp officer or the camp fire warden.

2. Extinguish a fire only if it can be done quickly and easily.

3. When the central alarm is sounded to warn the camp, quickly mobilize in your unit. Move to your pre-assigned point immediately and await directions.

4. A runner reports to the camp office for instructions from the camp fire warden.

5. In the event of a tent fire, you can douse it with water or sand, or simply kick out the end tent poles and let professionals fight the fire.

Outside Unit Campsite 1. If you discover a fire anywhere in camp,

report immediately to the camp office so the alarm may be sounded and fire authorities notified.

2. Camp fire warden sounds the central alarm, and your unit follows the instructions above.

3. Remember: Campers should not be directly involved in the fire fighting process except for fires that can be quickly and easily extinguished.

4. In case of a fire in our campsite, we will notify the camp fire warden and follow the instructions of our unit fire warden

How Your Unit Fireguard Plan Works

Duties When you arrived at camp, you were oriented and trained in the use of the unit fireguard plan. It is your responsibility as a unit leader to train your Scouts in fire prevention, fire detection, reporting, and fire control. Only implement fire control techniques that can be done quickly and easily. Study the procedures outlined on this chart and then train your staff and youth members. Post the chart for all to see and follow. At some camps local changes are made in these suggested procedures. All exceptions, however, should be made on the written recommendation and with the approval of local fire authorities.

Organize to make the fireguard plan work by appointing capable fire wardens and deputies.

Fire Wardens and Deputies As responsible Scouts appointed by their adult leader, the unit fire warden and his deputy are in charge of training, know where fire equipment is located, and are familiar with the unit fireguard chart. They instruct all unit fire wardens and Scouts in the operation of the camp fireguard plan. They conduct annual inspections of fire extinguishers and check to be sure all cooking fires, heating fires, and campfires are out at night or when no one is attending or monitoring the fire during the day. Unit fire wardens and deputies conduct fire drills at least once a week and follow the direction of the camp fire warden. They receive reports related to fire hazards daily from the duty fire warden.

Every boy in the unit should feel responsible for fire prevention, but the unit fire patrol for each day must be alert and ready to evacuate and account for everyone in case of fire emergency or drill. If a small fire breaks out, the person discovering it should take immediate action, whether or not he is on the fire patrol for the day. Time is the most important element in the suppression of a fire. Some examples of fire control techniques are:

Douse fire with water or sand. Smother fire with a lid. In the event of a tent fire, simply kick out the end tent poles.

Remember: Campers should not be involved in the fire fighting process except for fires that can be quickly and easily extinguished.

In making daily inspections of the unit campsite, the unit fire warden should follow the fire-prevention suggestions and use the fire-fighting equipment illustrations found throughout this chart as a guide. Campsite equipment will vary according to your camp. Results of the daily inspection should be posted on the chart in the space provided.

Patrol Fire Warden The patrol leader is responsible for training his patrol in the unit fireguard plan and leading the unit in practice evacuation and fire prevention.

He checks daily to be sure all members are preventing fires and are prepared in case a fire breaks out. He makes sure and double-checks that fires are built only on non-burnable soil in areas where they will not spread. He verifies to see that all fires are put COLD OUT and that open flames are not permitted in or near tents. He shows patrol members how to drop tents in case of fire. In the event of a tent fire, you can simply kick out the end tent poles and let professionals fight the fire.

Fire Emergencies

Protective Measures No flames or liquid or gas fuel lights in tents.

Only lamps with self-contained, pressurized bottles (propane) allowed.

All extra fuel for lanterns and stoves are stored in a marked flammable box.

No explosives or fireworks allowed.

Post fireguard chart and select fire warden.

Keep fire barrels filled to the rim and keep two buckets of water or dirt at each tent.

When a Fire Is Sighted 1. At the first sign of a fire, sound the alarm by yelling 'fire'.

2. Report the location of the fire immediately to group adults, the camp staff or other authority.

3. If the fire is small, suppress it with the campsite fire fighting equipment. If large, keep away and wait for camp staff, or other authorities to put the fire out. Prepare to evacuate camp, if necessary.

4. Adult leaders should account for all group members and be prepared to report group status to the camp staff.

5. If area fire alarm (siren) is sounded members should report to the general assembly area.

6. Your group should remain in that location until directions are received from the camp staff or other authority.

If Forest Fire Is Spotted 1. Report location and size to Camp

Headquarters immediately.

2. Use appropriate procedures to contain and fight fire if practical

3. Stay on scene until camp staff arrives on site.

4. Camp staff stays on scene until fire is out or Forest Service takes charge.

If Structural Fire Is Spotted 1. Secure perimeter.

2. Check for persons in building if possible.

3. Knock down blaze as possible.

4. Unless there is an immediate danger, alarms will be kept off.

5. Response Personnel will arrive to fight fires as designated by Camp Ranger.

6. If alarm sounds, follow procedures as described in previous areas, unless directed otherwise.

Weather Emergencies Group leaders should always keep appraised of current weather situations and forecasts. Local radio stations can be helpful. Obtaining a battery powered weather channel radio receiver can be an excellent investment for any outdoor scouting activity.

Storms (Electrical, Lightning, Wind) Keep away from tall trees, trees with dead

limbs creeks and lakes, rock formations and open areas.

Stay off slopes, washes, or creek beds. Do not remain in open areas or on high hills. Stay away from natural lightning rods: trees

in open areas, hilltops, ridges, water, beaches, boats, canoes, small structures in open areas and any metal object.

Check all tents so that they are secure. Cover and secure materials that could be

damaged or get away. Secure firewood for later use. Ensure that all fires are out. If at campsite, stay in the site. Secure troop in any available shelter. If near a building or vehicle, get inside. In a forest, seek shelter in a growth of trees

in a low area such as a ravine or valley. In the case of a flood warning, stay on high

ground. Report any damage to the Camp Director,

Program Director, or Ranger.

Electrical Storms (Lightning) Groups should spread out. If on the meadow area, drop to your knees

and bend forward putting your hands on your knees.

If you have a foam pad, kneel on it. At the first sign of an electrical storm all

water activities will be closed. (After you see lightning, track how many seconds it takes for you to hear thunder: every 5 seconds equals 1 mile.)

Windstorms Do not camp under or near dead

trees with dead limbs. Place tents on down wind hillside

or forest area of prevailing winds. Use extra lines to secure tents. Take down dining flies. In a building stay away from

windows.

Severe Cold

Be prepared for cold by using the

C-O-L-D System.

Keep Clean by keeping out dirt, grime and perspiration

Avoid Overheating by adjusting clothing to meet outside temperature and exertion rate.

Wear loose Layers of clothing so blood flow is not restricted and so dead air spaces between layers will trap warm air.

Keep Dry by keeping damp clothing away from your skin, and avoid situations that cause perspiration.

Always wear a hat as about 80% of heat loss can be through your head.

Limit time individuals are exposed to severe cold.

Watch for signs of hypothermia.

Missing Person Emergencies

Protective Measures Everyone uses the buddy system at all

times. Keep a roster of all members posted on

the campsite bulletin board. List each person's names and address.

Conduct a bed check every night and a roll call every morning.

Keep a check-out sheet and pencil posted for all members to tell where they are going, whenever they leave camp.

Hiking Procedures The leader keeps a list of all members

on the hike. A hiking permit is filed with the camp

headquarters. After you return, check-in at the camp headquarters.

There are two leaders on every hike, with one at the front and the other at the rear.

Members stay with groups at all times. No less than four individuals in a hike

group.

When a Person Is Missing Check obvious areas first: tents, campsites, latrines, showers, camp store, dining hall,

program areas, etc. Check sign-out register and hike register. Ask:

Who saw him last? Where-Which Way - was he going? When did he leave? Whom did he leave with? What mood was he in when he left - angry - homesick - normal?

If not located notify nearest camp staff member, camp ranger, or other authority.

Lost Person 1. Contact Headquarters and Notify the Camp Director or Program Director.

2. Gather all information about last activity where seen.

3. Gather all information about the person: height, weight, clothing, personal physical condition, areas liked the most, last area seen, persons last seen with, who his friends are.

4. Check personal gear to see what was taken with him.

5. Keep the leader in his area and keep troop in campsite.

6. If in daylight, begin a search of all areas and have staff report back, select three or four staff to search (adults).

7. If dark, begin search in the morning when there is daylight, if person does not return by morning.

8. After a reasonable search of trails, areas, campsites, along roads, around pool, lake, etc., then the Camp Director, Program Director will contact the Scout Executive or Field Service Director and notify local law authorities and forest service.

There are animals in camp that are potentially dangerous.

Encounters with Bears, Javelina, Rattlesnakes Snakes, Small Mammals and Poisonous Insects, should be immediately reported to a camp staff member, Headquarters, the

Camp Director, or Program Director, so the potential problem can be handled.

Animal Encounter Emergencies

Bears and Javelina These animals are usually looking for a free meal. Keeping a clean campsite by: picking up garbage; not spilling food; cooking at least

20 yards from your sleeping tent; and not keeping food or other delicious smelling items in your tent.

When camping along the trail, food should be stored 10 to 15 feet above the ground between two trees.

Always travel in a group of at least four. Whistle, sing or make some noise while hiking through bear country.

Rattlesnakes

Rattlesnakes are attracted by the mice and other small mammals that come into the area

to pick up crumbs from snacks.

Keep a keen eye out for rattlesnakes around rocks and ledges. Always watch where you intend to step, and never put your hand or feet where you

have not looked first. If a rattlesnake is encountered, move away as quickly as possible, and simply make a

wide path around it to continue travel. If a rattlesnake is encountered in the main camp area, report it to a camp staff

member or to the camp ranger.

Skunks

Squirrels, skunks, bats and other mammals can carry rabies.

Mice droppings may contain Hantavirus.

Skunks are very common at Camp Geronimo and can make your stay miserable if they are not treated with respect.

They are mostly after food and they forage mainly at night. Keep your campsite clean and when you encounter a skunk, do not provoke it,, stay

clear and keep your movements slow and deliberate.

Other Emergencies

All Boy Scouts of America Youth Protection Guidelines are followed at all times.

Youth Protection Two adult leaders MUST be in camp with any Scout group at all times. All backcountry outings must have at least two adult leaders present. One youth member to one adult member activities are not permitted. Adults may not sleep in the same tent with a youth member, unless the youth

member is their own child. Adults may not shower with youth members. Incidents of abuse - sexual, physical, mental, etc. - MUST be reported to the camp

director, camp program director or camp ranger. The report will then be passed on to the Grand Canyon Council, BSA scout executive who in turn will report it to the proper authorities.

If an accident requires medical attention, follow listed medical procedures.

For all emergencies that involve all of those in attendance, follow these procedures:

Evacuation Plan 1. Camp Geronimo is equipped with a siren, when it is constantly blowing, all Scouts and

Scouters are to report to the campfire ring area, and await further instructions.

2. From there a head count will take place and you will be under the direction of the camp program director.

3. From there you will be given directions.

4. If car evacuation is necessary, please follow the directions of the camp director or program director.

5. Do not leave on your own.

6. Please proceed in an orderly and calm fashion!